Cup it. Invest in 2- to 3-ounce plastic soufflé cups with lids to pack peanut butter, salsa and other dips and dressings for kids. For a great sandwich side, make a simple cucumber or carrot salad and pack it in a cup. Don’t forget to include a plastic fork.

Crunch it. Something salty and crunchy is a must, and it doesn’t have to be fried. Baked pita bread, tortillas, wontons, poppadoms and sweet potato chips are healthier options.

Prep it. Make everything except the sandwich the night before.

Freeze it. Freeze water or juice overnight, and the next morning place the frozen drink in the lunch box to keep the rest of the food cool.